David Mezzapelle was inspired to write this book based on his life's experiences, his own contagious optimism and the support of fellow forward looking people in his life. Contagious Optimism is an uplifting book that includes stories and parables of amazing life turnarounds. A compendium of encouragement, Contagious Optimism includes advice and guidance from business leaders, visionaries, and just plain folk. Nowadays, many people have lost confidence in themselves and the world around them due to personal hardship along with economic and political uncertainty worldwide. Contagious Optimism shows readers that it’s possible to look for and FIND silver linings. Developed by some of the team that brought you Random Acts of Kindness, this book is rather like "Chicken Soup of the Soul" meets Pay It Forward, on steroids! Contagious Optimism is pure inspiration that will lift hearts, open minds and create a movement of pass-it-on hope and happiness.Features stories from "contagious optimists" such as:Ricky Wade - orphaned as a child in Jamaica, Wade worked his way up from the grill to become one of the top execs at McDonalds, mentoring and hiring at-risk youth in his stores.Michael Beckwith - his global pilgrimage to continue the mission of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led to his founding of the single largest interfaith church in America: LA's Agape.Nancy Ferrari, the "Oprah of AM Radio," dedicated to giving all women tools and inspiration for success in work and life.